Proof Sheet: J-Hon Poellnitz

J-Hon is a name and a face that every skater in San Diego knows and loves. Just say the name ‘J-Hon’ and people get psyched! Based in North County, J-Hon has worked as a photographer for Black Box, most specifically with the $lave brand, and has had several photos in TransWorld as well. Never one to sit still, J-Hon has organized a photo show in Oceanside, California opening this Friday called 5 x 10 at the Twenty20 Gallery. Read through this Proof Sheet to get acquainted with this man of many talents, and get some insight on the show as well. See you this Friday at the opening!

Anthony Schultz, wallride to feeble grind.

How long have you been shooting skating and what got you into it?I’ve been shooting skate photos for over 13 years, I guess what got me into it was just being around the homies I grew up skating with.

Is there one photograph or photographer that inspired you to take up photography?Oh yeah, it’s embedded in my head ’til this day, the photo was shot during the the civil rights movement at Kelly Ingram park, Birmingham, photographer Bob Adelman. The photo displayed protesters getting hosed down by firemen to prevent the ongoing demonstrations, each protester held on to each other and stood strong.

What’s the best and worst advice you’ve been given on photography?Best advice, never stop shooting. Worst advice, your equipment is not good enough—haha.

Do you have a favorite photo of your own?Matt Mumford, backside nose pick on that bump to bar in Sacramento. I guess it’s one of my favorites because it was my first cover and also I never thought I would be shooting a legend like Mumford growing up.

What’s the most interesting story behind one of your photos?I would have to say the photo of the women passed out with her eyes open due to a car accident. What makes it interesting is the show of compassion strangers display when one is in need for help. At that point it doesn’t matter who the person is, all selfishness is lost.

What advice would you give to up and coming skate photogs?Don’t ever let people tell you what you love to do is wrong. Keep doing what makes you happy, if you come across someone who doesn’t understand that then they don’t deserve to be in you’re life.

Do you prefer digital or film?Depends on the job, I shoot film for more personal projects and digital for “we need this shit right now” projects. Haha.

What’s the idea behind the Oceanside 5×10 photo show?There’s a total of 10 photographers with the same objective, which is to shoot all photos based in Oceanside showing your perspective. I believe when people think of Oceanside the first thing that comes to mind is the beach, palm trees, and Marines. This show is going to show a different side of Oceanside.

Is this the first show you’ve curated?I just recommended a couple photographers to the show. Wouldn’t necessary say I curated it.

Why did you pick these 10 photographers?They all have great times and stories behind them. That makes me love what I do.